These maple grilled peaches are simply amazing! The warm, sweet fruit pairs wonderfully with crunchy almond cookie crumbs on top. It’s a treat that’ll make your taste buds dance!
Honestly, who knew peaches could taste this good? 😋 I love making these in summer when the fruit is juicy and ripe. It’s a fun and easy dessert that always impresses guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are essential for this recipe. Look for ones that yield slightly to pressure for the best sweetness. If peaches are out of season, nectarines are a great alternative!
Maple Syrup: This ingredient brings a unique sweetness. If you’re looking for a substitute, agave syrup or honey can work, but adjust the quantity based on their sweetness levels.
Almond Cookies: Almond cookies add texture and flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use graham crackers or shortbread cookies. Crushed nuts can also be added to amp up the almond flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used here, but feel free to use coconut oil for a dairy-free option. It will still give a lovely flavor and help with crumb texture.
How Can I Grill Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling peaches can be tricky, but with a few steps, you’ll get it just right. The goal is to achieve those nice grill marks and soften the fruit without turning it into mush.
- First, preheat your grill on medium heat for a few minutes.
- Brush the cut sides of peaches with olive oil to prevent sticking and help with caramelization.
- Start by placing the peaches cut-side down for about 4-5 minutes. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
- When grill marks appear, flip them over gently, then drizzle with your maple syrup mixture and grill for another 3-4 minutes.
How to Make Maple Grilled Peaches with Almond Cookie Crumb
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Peaches:
- 4 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For the Almond Cookie Crumb:
- 1 cup almond cookies, crushed (or almond flour)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds (optional, for added crunch)
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of grilling time. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and impressive dessert ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
First, preheat your grill to medium heat. You want it hot enough to give those peaches nice grill marks, so this step is important!
2. Mix the Maple Syrup Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This will give your peaches a sweet and spicy glaze. Set this mixture aside for later.
3. Brush the Peaches:
Next, brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. This helps them grill nicely and prevents sticking on the grill.
4. Grill the Peaches:
Now, place the peach halves cut-side down on the grill. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes. You want to see nice grill marks and for them to start softening up a bit.
5. Make the Almond Cookie Crumb:
While the peaches are grilling, let’s prepare the almond cookie crumb. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed almond cookies (or almond flour), melted butter, and the chopped almonds if you’re using them. Mix everything together until the crumbs are nicely coated.
6. Drizzle and Flip:
Once your peaches have those lovely grill marks, carefully flip them over. Now, drizzle the maple syrup mixture over each peach half. Grill them for an additional 3-4 minutes to let those flavors soak in.
7. Cool and Top:
After grilling, carefully remove the peaches from the grill and let them cool slightly. While they cool, you can prepare to top them!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Top each grilled peach with the almond cookie crumb you made earlier. For an extra treat, serve them warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with nectarines, plums, or even pineapple. Just make sure the fruits are ripe but still firm, so they hold up well on the grill. Adjust cooking times slightly, as different fruits may grill faster or slower than peaches.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Peaches?
To store leftovers, place the grilled peach halves in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed soon after grilling but can be reheated in the microwave or served cold over yogurt or oatmeal for a delicious breakfast!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this dish vegan, simply replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and skip the ice cream or use a vegan ice cream alternative. The almond cookie crumb will still be delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Almond Cookies?
If you don’t have almond cookies, you can use any other type of cookie, such as gingersnaps or vanilla wafers. For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free cookies or almond flour mixed with a little sweetener and spices to replicate the flavor!
